Continuously variable, closed loop, instrument tether

ABSTRACT

A tether for securing a variety of instruments. The tether may include a band sized to fit a human wrist, a lanyard formed as a continuous, closed loop, an interface connecting the lanyard to the band, and a lock. The lock may adjustably pinch the lanyard to form two sub-loops therefrom. By adjusting the location where the lock pinches the lanyard, the size of one sub-loop may be continuously increased or decreased, while the size of the other sub-loop may be simultaneously, continuously, and respectively decreased or increased. Accordingly, by adjusting the location where the lock pinches the lanyard, the size of the one sub-loop may continuously vary between a minimum size and a maximum size. In one embodiment, this minimum size may corresponding to an interior diameter within the one sub-loop of substantially zero.

BACKGROUND

1. The Field of the Invention

This invention relates to object retention systems and, moreparticularly, to novel systems and methods for tethering to a userinstruments such as tools, fasteners, and the like.

2. The Background Art

In many situations, it is inconvenient, costly, or dangerous to drop aninstrument (e.g., a tool, fastener, or the like) during use. Forexample, in the printing business it is often necessary to work onprinting machinery that is in use. If a technician, while performrepairs or effecting adjustments, were to in advertently drop aninstrument into such machinery, the typical solution would require theentire printing line to be stopped while someone retrieved theinstrument. Such a solution is certainly inconvenient. It is alsocostly, as production time would be wasted. Moreover, depending on wherethe instrument were to fail, it may enter and damage moving mechanisms,resulting in repair cost as well as additional wasted time.

In automobile repair, there are certain tasks or situations whereinadvertently dropping an instrument may render it difficult to retrieveand, as a result, decrease the mechanic's efficiency. In othersituations or professions, dropping an instrument may render iteffectively unretrievable. For example, while working over water, aworker may inadvertently drop an instrument. The depth of the water orthe inconvenience of diving in may be such that the worker would ratherforfeit the value of the instrument than pay the cost of retrieving it.

In still other situations, dropping an instrument may constitute asafety hazard. For example, while working on scaffolding, if a workerwere to inadvertently drop a hammer, the falling hammer may constitute asignificant safety hazard to those below. Of course, even if the fallinghammer caused no physical damage, the worker must still face thesubstantial inconvenience of climbing down the scaffolding, retrievingthe hammer, and climbing back up the scaffolding before returning toproductive labor.

In summary, there are numerous situations where a user may desire totether an instrument, rather than face the consequences of inadvertentlydropping that instrument. Accordingly, what is needed is an inexpensivetether of sound construction that is able to engage and secureinstruments of various sizes and weights. Such a tether should be ableto secure instruments when they are being used or manipulated as well aswhen they are not.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In view of the foregoing, in accordance with the invention as embodiedand broadly described herein, a method and apparatus are disclosed inone embodiment of the present invention as including a tether comprisinga band sized and shaped to engage some portion of a user's hand,forearm, upper arm, belt, tool belt, clothing, or the like. For example,a band may be sized and shaped to encircle a wrist.

A lanyard may be connected to the band. In certain embodiments, alanyard in accordance with the present invention may be formed as aclosed, continuous loop That is, a lanyard may be formed as a single,closed loop, without any joints or seams. It has been found that anO-ring seal of circular cross-section and sufficient size provides asuitable lanyard.

The connection between a band and a lanyard may be accomplished in anysuitable manner. In certain embodiments, a lanyard may connect to a bandby simply looping directly therethrough. In other embodiments, aninterface may connect the lanyard to the band. In one embodiment, aninterface may be a loop of material secured to the band and extending toengage the lanyard.

In selected embodiments, a lock may be applied to the lanyard. A lockmay adjustably pinch the lanyard to form first and second sub-loops. Byadjusting the location where the lock pinches the lanyard, the size ofthe first and second sub-loops may be controlled. It has been found thata cord lock provides a suitable lock.

In certain embodiments, the first sub-loop may engage the interface.Accordingly, the second sub-loop may be available to engage and securean instrument. For example, an instrument may be placed and securedwithin the second sub-loop. The position of the lock on the lanyard maythen be adjusted until the second sub-loop is sufficiently small toresist inadvertent removal of the instrument from therewithin.Accordingly, a tether in accordance with the present invention mayprovide significant convenience and security by controlling theplacement, movement, and proximity of a wide variety of instruments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing features of the present invention will become more fullyapparent from the following description and appended claims, taken inconjunction with the accompanying drawings. Understanding that thesedrawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are,therefore, not to be considered limiting of its scope, the inventionwill be described with additional specificity and detail through use ofthe accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a tether comprising a band, interface,lanyard, and lock, wherein the band engages the wrist of a user and thelanyard secures an instrument in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a band showing various alternativeclosures that may be applied thereto in accordance with the presentinvention;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a band showing various alternativeinterfaces that may be applied thereto in accordance with the presentinvention;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of one possible first step in forming aband and interface from a single, continuous piece or strip of material,namely the step of folding the strip to extend at a ninety degree anglewith respect to itself, thereby delineating a band portion and aninterface portion;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of one possible second step in forming aband and interface from a single, continuous piece or strip of material,namely the step of folding the interface portion back over itself towardthe band portion;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of possible third and forth steps informing a band and interface from a single, continuous piece or strip ofmaterial, namely the steps of applying a closure to the interfaceportion to maintain the single, continuous strip of material in thedesired configuration and applying a closure to the band portion;

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional, side view of one embodiment of a lock inaccordance with the present invention with the lock in an engagedposition;

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional, side view of the lock of FIG. 7 with thelock in a disengaged position;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a lock inaccordance with the present invention, wherein the lock comprises nomoving parts;

FIG. 10 is a side, elevation view of a lock positioned on a lanyard tosubstantially minimize the size of the second sub-loop;

FIG. 11 is a side, elevation view of a lock positioned on a lanyard tosubstantially maximize the size of the second sub-loop to accommodate aninstrument of significant girth;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a tether in accordance with the presentinvention comprising a band, an interface, and multiple lanyards withcorresponding locks;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a tether comprising a band, interface,lanyard, and lock, wherein the band engages the wrist of a user and thelanyard secures an instrument being manipulated by the user inaccordance with the present invention;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of multiple lanyards chained together inaccordance with the present invention;

FIG. 15 is a schematic block diagram illustrating a method forconstructing a tether in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 16 is a schematic block diagram illustrating a method for utilizinga tether in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 17 is a schematic block diagram illustrating a method for engagingan instrument using a lanyard and lock in accordance with the presentinvention; and

FIG. 18 is a schematic block diagram illustrating a method for utilizinga tether in accordance with the present invention to secure multipleinstruments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATED EMBODIMENTS

It will be readily understood that the components of the presentinvention, as generally described and illustrated in the drawingsherein, may be arranged and designed in a wide variety of differentconfigurations. Thus, the following more detailed description of theembodiments of the system and method of the present invention, asrepresented in the drawings, is not intended to limit the scope of theinvention, as claimed, but is merely representative of variousembodiments of the invention. The illustrated embodiments of theinvention will be best understood by reference to the drawings, whereinlike parts are designated by like numerals throughout.

Referring to FIG. 1, in selected embodiments a tether 10 in accordancewith the present invention may include a band 12 sized and shaped toengage some portion of a user's hand, forearm, upper arm, belt, toolbelt, clothing, or the like. For example, in certain embodiments, a band12 may be sized and shaped to encircle one or more fingers or a thumb.In other embodiments, a band 12 may be sized and shaped to receive abelt therethrough. In still other embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 1,a band 12 may be sized and shaped to encircle a wrist 14.

In certain embodiments, a lanyard 16 may be connected to the band 12. Alanyard 16 in accordance with the present invention may be formed as aclosed loop. If desired, a lanyard 16 may also be continuous. That is, alanyard 16 may be formed as a single, closed loop, without any separableor discontinuous joints or seams.

A lanyard 16 may be formed of any suitable material. Characteristicsthat may be considered when selecting the material for a lanyard 16 mayinclude cost, availability, workability, durability, strength, aestheticappeal, flexibility, tack or frictional engagement with other materials,and the like. Suitable materials may include metals, metal alloys,naturally-occurring fibers, synthetic fibers, polymers, and the like.For example, in selected embodiments, a lanyard 16 be formed of metalstrands braided together.

In other embodiments, a lanyard 16 may be formed of an elastic material.For example, if desired, a lanyard 16 may be formed of an elastomericpolymer. It has been found that an O-ring seal of circular cross-sectionand sufficient size provides a suitable lanyard 16. Such seals arereadily available in a variety of sizes, have sufficient tensilestrength, have sufficient durability, and provide an excellent, almosttacky, non-slip frictional engagement with a wide variety of materials.

The connection between a band 12 and a lanyard 16 may be accomplished inany suitable manner. In certain embodiments, a lanyard 16 may connect toa band 12 by simply looping directly therethrough. In other embodiments,an interface 18 or bracket 18 may connect the lanyard 16 to the band 12.In one embodiment, an interface 18 may be a loop of material secured tothe band 12 and extending to engage the lanyard 16.

In selected embodiments, a lock 20 may be applied to the lanyard 16. Insome embodiments, a lock 20 may adjustably pinch the lanyard 16 to forma first sub-loop 22 and a second sub-loop 24. By adjusting the locationwhere the lock 20 pinches the lanyard 16, the size of the first andsecond sub-loops 22, 24 may be controlled. Movement of the lock 20 onthe lanyard 16 may continuously increase or decrease the size of thefirst sub-loop 22, while simultaneously, continuously, and respectivelydecreasing or increasing the size of the second sub-loop 24. Thesub-loops 22, 24 may be reduced to zero open area in the absences ofanything captured therein, due to the resilience or elasticity of thematerial.

In certain embodiments, the first sub-loop 22 may engage the interface18. Alternatively, in embodiments were the interface 18 is omitted, thefirst sub-loop 22 may directly engage the band 12. Accordingly, thesecond sub-loop 24 may be available to engage and secure an instrument26. That is, an instrument 26 may be placed and secured within thesecond sub-loop 24. The position of the lock 20 on the lanyard 16 maythen be adjusted until the second sub-loop 24 is sufficiently small toresist inadvertent removal of the instrument 26 from therewithin.

An instrument 26 in accordance with the present invention may be acomponent, fastener, tool, or any other item for which tethering isdesired. For example, an instrument 26 may be a screw, nail, staple,bolt, nut, rivet, pin, pair of scissors, pair of pliers, wrench, driver,rachet, hammer, pneumatic tool, power tool, or the like. The ability ofthe lock 20 to control the size of the second sub-loop 24 facilitatessecurement of instruments 26 of various dimensions with a singleapparatus 10. Accordingly, a tether 10 in accordance with the presentinvention may provide significant convenience and security bycontrolling the placement, movement, and proximity of instruments 26 ofvarious sizes and weights.

Referring to FIG. 2, in selected embodiments, a band 12 in accordancewith the present invention may be discontinuous. That is, a band 12 mayinclude a discontinuity 28 facilitating application of the band 12 to awrist 14, arm, finger, thumb, belt, or the like. Such a discontinuity 28may be coupled with a closure 30 selectively and adjustably closing thediscontinuity 28.

For example, in some embodiments 32, a closure 30 such as ahook-and-loop arrangement or securement (e.g., Velcro®) may be appliedto a discontinuity 28. In other embodiments 34, a closure 30 such as asnap may be used. In still other embodiments 36, a closure 30 such as abuckle may be used. In general, a closure 30 may be any mechanicalarrangement providing the desired adjustability and securement strength.

A band 12 in accordance with the present invention may be formed of anysuitable material. Suitable materials maybe chosen based on cost,comfort, availability, workability, durability, strength, aestheticappeal, flexibility, and the like. Suitable materials may includenatural as well as synthetic materials. For example, in selectedembodiments, a band 12 may be formed of leather. In other embodiments, aband 12 may be formed of woven polymeric strands (e.g., nylon,polyester, or the like).

In still other embodiments, a band 12 may be formed of an elastomericmaterial. If desired, a band 12 may be formed of a solid, continuouspiece of elastomeric material. Alternatively, the band 12 may be formedof woven strands of elastomeric material. In certain embodiments 38,band 12 formed of elastomeric material may be formed without anydiscontinuity 28. In such embodiments, the resilience of the materialmay facilitate easy application and securement of the band 12 to thewrist 14, arm, finger, thumb, or the like, with minimal adjustment.

In certain applications, it may be desirable to stow a tether 10 when itis not being used. Accordingly, in some embodiments, a band 12 mayinclude a securement mechanism facilitating stowage. For example, a band12 may include a first patch of hook-and-loop material. A user may applya corresponding second patch of hook-and-loop material to a desiredstowage location. Accordingly, by applying the first patch to the secondpatch, the tether 10 may be secured at a location facilitatingsubsequent use.

Referring to FIG. 3, the connection between a band 12 and a lanyard 16may be accomplished in any suitable manner. Accordingly, the connectionmay be made with or without an interface 18. In embodiments 40 withoutan interface 18, a lanyard 16 may connect to a band 12 by simply loopingthrough the interior 42 thereof. In embodiments including an interface18, that interface 18 (or bracket 18) may comprise any suitablemechanism capable of securing a lanyard 16 to a band 12. A hook, clamp,slot, ring, loop, or the like may form a bracket of any suitablematerial to receive and retain a lanyard 16.

In selected embodiments, an interface 18 may comprise a loop of materialsecured to the band 12 and extending to engage the lanyard 16. In suchembodiments, an interface 18 may include a closure 44. The nature of theclosure 44 may determine whether the interface 18 provides permanent ornon-permanent securement of a lanyard 16 to a band 12, to the interface18, or to both 12, 18.

For example, in certain embodiments 46, an interface 18 may include aclosure 44 in the form of a snap. Accordingly, the closure 44 may besnapped to secure the lanyard 16 and unsnapped to permit removal of thelanyard 16. In other embodiments 48, a closure 44 in the form of a hookand loop securement may likewise provide non-permanent securement of alanyard 16 to a band 12.

In other embodiments, the closure 44 may be in a form providingpermanent securement of a lanyard 16 to a band 12. For example, inselected embodiments 50, a closure 44 may comprise stitching closing aninterface 18 and permanently securing any engaged lanyard 16 to thecorresponding band 12. In other embodiments 52, a closure 44 in the formof a rivet may likewise provide permanent securement of a lanyard 16 toa band 12. The interface may even be a solid, continuous ring 18.

In selected embodiments, an interface 18 in accordance with the presentinvention may include configurations other than the looped arrangementsdiscussed hereinabove. For example, in some embodiments 54, a strip ofmaterial 56 may be positioned along a band 12. The strip of material 56may be secured to the band 12 by first and second closures 44 a, 44 b.Accordingly, a middle portion 58 positioned between the first and secondclosures 44 a, 44 b may provide an enclosed space through which alanyard 16 may pass.

In the illustrated embodiment 54, the first and second closures 44 a, 44b are illustrated as stitching. However, any closure 44 or combinationof closures 44 may be used. For example, if a non-permanent engagementwith a lanyard 16 is desired, a first closure 44 a may be stitching,while the second closure 44 b may comprise a snap.

If desired, an interface 18 may include more than one component 60. Forexample, in certain embodiments 62, an interface 18 may include firstand second components 60 a, 60 b. A first component 60 a may bepatterned after the strip or loop type interfaces 18 discussedhereinabove. A second component 60 a may engage this first component 60a and extend to engage a lanyard 16. In selected embodiments, the secondcomponent 60 b may be a mechanical device such as a clip, carabiner, orthe like.

Referring to FIGS. 4-6, an interface 18 in accordance with the presentinvention may be formed of any suitable material. As with a band 12,suitable material for an interface 18 may be chosen based on cost,comfort, availability, workability, durability, strength, aestheticappeal, flexibility, and the like. Accordingly, suitable materials mayinclude natural as well as synthetic materials. For primarily aestheticreasons, the interface 18 is typically formed of a material comparableto that of the corresponding band 12. Accordingly, if the band 12 is tobe formed of a particular leather, the interface 18 may also be formedof that particular leather. However, mixing and matching of variousmaterials is also contemplated within the present invention.

In selected embodiments, it may be desirable to form a band 12 andinterface 18 from a single, continuous piece or strip of material 64.This may be accomplished in any suitable manner. For example, in oneembodiment, a single, continuous strip of material 64 may be folded toextend at substantially a ninety degree angle with respect to itself,thereby delineating a band portion 12 and an interface portion 18.

The interface portion 18 may then be folded back over itself toward theband potion 12. An appropriate closure 44 for the interface portion 18may then be selected and applied. For example, in the illustratedembodiment, the closure 44 for the interface portion 18 comprisesstitching maintaining the single, continuous strip of material 64 in thedesired configuration. Finally, an appropriate closure 30 may beselected and applied to the band portion 12. For example, in theillustrated embodiment, a hook and loop closure 30 has been applied tothe band portion 12. Alternatively, a ring 18 may slip over the bank 12and through the lanyard 16.

Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, a lock 20 in accordance with the presentinvention may have any suitable configuration and method of operation.For example, in selected embodiments, a lock 20 may be configured as acord lock. Such a lock 20 may include a housing 66, a piston 68, and abiasing member 70.

When the piston 68 is urged to compress or deflect the biasing member70, an aperture 72 in the piston 68 may align with an aperture 74 in thehousing 66. Accordingly, in a compressed configuration 76, a lanyard 16may pass through the aligned apertures 72, 74. Alternatively, when in anon-compressed configuration 78, the biasing member 70 may urge theaperture 72 in the piston 68 out of alignment with the aperture 74 inthe housing 66. Thus, in an non-compressed configuration 78, the piston68 and housing 66 may pinch a previously inserted lanyard 16sufficiently to resist further movement of the lock 20 therealong.

Referring to FIG. 9, in selected embodiments, the operation of a lock 20may be simplified sufficiently to avoid moving parts. For example, inone embodiment, a lock 20 may simply comprise an object 80 with anaperture 82 passing therethrough. The size and shape of the aperture 82may be selected to provide a frictional engagement with the lanyard 16.That is, the aperture 82 may be sized and shaped to travel along thelanyard 16 when intentionally manipulated, yet grip the lanyard 16 withsufficient friction to resist inadvertent travel therealong.

Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, in selected embodiments, a lanyard 16 maybe formed as a closed loop. Accordingly, a lock 20 may adjustably pinchsuch a lanyard 16 to form two sub-loops 22, 24. In such an arrangement,adjusting the location where the lock 20 pinches the lanyard 16 willcontinuously increase or decrease the size of one sub-loop 22, 24, whilesimultaneously, continuously, and respectively decreasing or increasingthe size of the other sub-loop 24, 22. Accordingly, by adjusting thelocation where the lock 20 pinches the lanyard 16, the size of thesecond sub-loop 24 may transition between a minimum size 84 and amaximum size 86. Alternatively, each sub-loop 22,24 may be sizedindependently by its own lock 20.

At is minimum size 84, the second sub-loop 24 may have an interiordiameter of substantially zero. So configured, the second sub-loop 24may encircle and secure very slender instruments 26 (e.g., needles,pins, or the like). Conversely, at its maximum size 86, the majority ofthe lanyard 16 is included within the second sub-loop 24. So configured,the second sub-loop 24 may encircle and secure instruments 26 ofsignificant girth (e.g., power tools or the like).

Referring to FIG. 12, in selected situations or applications, it may bedesirable to simultaneously tether more than one instrument 26. Forexample, it may be desirable to tether a screw as well as acorresponding screwdriver. Accordingly, in selected embodiments, a usermay apply and simultaneously utilize more than one tether 10 inaccordance with the present invention.

For example, in one embodiment, a user may secure a first instrument 26using a first tether 10 applied to one wrist 14, while securing a secondinstrument 26 using a second tether 10 applied to the other wrist 14. Inother embodiments, a user may apply multiple tethers 10 in accordancewith the present invention to the same appendage. For example, a usermay apply two or more tethers 10 to the same wrist 14.

In still other embodiments, a tether 10 in accordance with the presentinvention may include a single band 12, but multiple lanyards 16. Forexample, a single band 12 may support a single interface 18 that, inturn, may support multiple lanyards 16, each having a corresponding lock20.

In one embodiment, a tether 10 in accordance with the present inventionmay be provided with multiple lanyards 16 representing various sizes(e.g., diameters, cross-sectional areas), multiples of similar sizes, orsome combination thereof as well as an interface 18 having anon-permanent closure 44. Accordingly, before securing any instruments26, a user may connect an arrangement of lanyards 16 sufficient toperform the task or tasks contemplated. If desired, in addition, or asan alternative, to securing various lanyards 16, an interface 18 mayengage other types of structures for securement of instruments 26. Forexample, an interface 18 may secure one or more strap securements usinghook-and-loop arrangements to rap and secure an instrument 26.

Referring to FIG. 13, in selected embodiments, a tether 10 in accordancewith the present invention may be used to secure diminutive instruments26 or parts. For example, as illustrated, a tether 10 may be used tosecure a screw, even while that screw is being manipulated (e.g.,started, rotated). Also, the interface 18 and lanyard 16 may be centeredon the user's palm, permitting work in tight or constrictingenvironments.

During certain uses, a tether 10 may inadvertently snag on movingmachinery. If such a tether 10 were overly strong, it may pull the hand,arm, or entire body of a user into a dangerous and harmful environment.To eliminate the potential for such accidents, a tether 10 in accordancewith the present invention may provide a specified breakaway strength.That is, a tether 10 may be designed to fail, thereby freeing the user,when loads greater than a specified amount are applied to a tether 10 orlanyard 16. In selected embodiments, such specified loads may residesomewhere above loads representing normal use, but well below loadsrepresenting an inadvertent snag.

The breakaway strength of a tether 10 or lanyard 16 in accordance withthe present invention may be controlled in any suitable manner. Forexample, in selected embodiments, a lanyard 16 may be designed to failat loadings above the specified limit. In other embodiments, the closure44 of an interface 18 may be designed to fail at loadings above thespecified limit. In other embodiments, the closure 30 of a band 12 maybe designed to fail at loadings above the specified limit. In stillother embodiments, one or more, or some combination, of the lanyard 16,closure 44 of the interface 18, and closure 30 of the band 12 may bedesigned to fail at loadings above the specified limit.

In selected embodiments, it may be desirable to increase the effectivetethering distance 88 (i.e., the distance 88 between the band 12 and theinstrument 26). For example, when securing instruments 26, the size ofthe first sub-loop 22 largely determines the tethering distance 88.However, the size of the first sub-loop 22 is controlled by, and variesinversely with, the size of the second sub-loop 24. Accordingly, unlikethe illustrated arrangement incorporating an instrument 26 of diminutivesize, when securing instruments 26 of substantial girth, the majority ofthe lanyard 16 may be included within the second sub-loop 24. In suchsituations, the tethering distance 88 may be limited. If too limited,the tethering distance 88 may preclude proper manipulation of theinstrument 26.

Additional tethering distance 88 may be provided in any suitable manner.For example, in selected embodiments, a lanyard 16 having a greater sizeor circumference may be selected when securing larger instruments 26.With a greater circumference, sufficient length or size may remain inthe first sub-loop 22, even when the second sub-loop 24 encircles aninstrument 26 of substantial girth.

In other embodiments, the length 90 of an interface 18 may be increasedto provide the necessary or desired tethering distance 88. By increasingthe length 90 of an interface 18, the tethering distance 88 may be lessdependent on the size of the first sub-loop 22. Accordingly, even whenthe majority of the lanyard 16 is included within the second sub-loop24, the length 90 of the interface 18 may provide a desired or necessarytethering distance 88.

In certain embodiments, an interface 18 in accordance with the presentinvention may have an adjustable length 90. For example, the closure 44of an interface 18 may accommodate an array of securement locations.Each such securement location may correspond to a different length 90.

Referring to FIG. 14, in selected embodiments, to provide additionaltethering distance 88, lanyards 16 in accordance with the presentinvention may be chained together. For example, as stated hereinabove, atether 10 in accordance with the present invention may be provided withmultiple lanyards 16 a, 16 b representing various sizes, multiples ofsimilar sizes, or some combination thereof, as well as an interface 18having a non-permanent closure 44. Accordingly, one or more of theselanyards 16 a, 16 b may be removed from the interface 18 and chainedtogether to increase the tethering distance 88. In such arrangements,even when substantially all of the last lanyard 16 b on the chain isconsumed within a second sub-loop 24 b encircling a large instrument 26,the other lanyard 16 a or lanyards 16 are still available to provide thedesired tethering distance 88.

Referring to FIG. 15, a method 92 for manufacturing a tether 10 inaccordance with the present invention may begin with the selection 94 ofthe material for the band 12. For example, this step may compriseselection 94 of a woven, polymeric, strap from which a band 12 may beformed. Depending on the nature of the material selected 94 for the band12, a closure 30 for the band 12 may also be selected 96. That is, ifthe material for the band 12 is elastomeric, perhaps a closure 30 may beomitted. On the other hand, if the material for the band 12 isinextensible, a closure 30 may be useful. In certain embodiments, ahook-and-loop arrangement may be selected 96 as the closure 30 for theband 12.

If an interface 18 is to be included within the tether 10, the materialfor that interface 18 may then be selected 98. In general, the selection98 of the material for the interface 18 may mirror or complement theselection 94 of the material for the band 12. Accordingly, in oneembodiment, a common material may be selected 94, 98 for both the band12 and the interface 18. Depending on whether a permanent ornon-permanent securement of a lanyard 16 is desired, the interface 18may include any of various closures 44. For example, if permanentsecurement is desired, stitching or a rivet-type closure 44 may beselected 100. Alternatively, if non-permanent securement is desired, asnap, hook-and-loop, or clip-type of closure 44 may be selected 100.

Next, one or more lanyards 16 may be selected 102. In certainembodiments, selection 102 of a lanyard 16 may include the selection ofan “off-the-shelf” type of product. For example, in one embodiment,selection 102 of a lanyard 16 may comprise the selection of an O-ringhave the desired cross-sectional shape, cross-sectional thickness, andoverall circumference. Loops 16 of tubing (e.g. plastic, polymers,elastomers, etc.) or cord 16 may serve as lanyards as well. Frictionalcapacity to grip may vary according to the material.

One or more locks 20 may be selected 104 according to the number oflanyards 16. In selected embodiments, selection 104 of a lock 20 maysimilarly include the selection of an “off-the-shelf” type product. Forexample, in one embodiment, selection 104 of a lock 20 may includeselection of a cord lock corresponding in size to the cross-sectionalthickness of the lanyard 16.

Finally, once the various pieces have been collected, the tether 10 maybe assembled 106. Assembling 106 a tether 10 in accordance with thepresent invention may include cutting materials for the band 12 andinterface 18 to the desired length, processing cut edges to resistfraying, then folding, sewing, riveting, applying closures 30, 44,securing lanyards 16, applying locks 20, or the like.

Referring to FIG. 16, a method 108 of utilizing a tether 10 inaccordance with the present invention may begin with application 110 ofthe band 12. In selected embodiments, this application 110 simplycomprises securing the band 12 at an appropriate location on the user(e.g., the user's wrist 14, belt, clothing, or the like). In alternativeembodiments, the band 12 may be either augmented or replaced by a clipor pin securing the system 10 to clothing, such as a sleeve of a shirt,jacket, or coveralls.

An instrument 26 may then be positioned 112 for securement. In general,such positioning 112 may comprise placing the instrument 26 within thesecond sub-loop 24. The size of the second sub-loop 24 may then beadjusted (reduced) to engage 114 the instrument 26. Once secured, theinstrument 26 may be utilized 116 as desired or necessary.

When the user has finished using 116 the instrument 26, it may bereleased 118 from the second sub-loop 24. The user may then position 112another instrument 26 and repeat the process. Alternatively, if the userhas no more need for tethering, the band 12 may be removed 120 and thetether 10 stowed for future use.

Referring to FIG. 17, the step of engaging 114 an instrument 26, as setforth hereinabove, may include various sub-steps. For example, inselected embodiments, engaging 114 an instrument 26 may begin withrelease 122 of a lock 20. This may free the lock 20 to travel along thelanyard 16. Accordingly, the lock 20 may be advanced 124 toward theinstrument 26 being secured. This may have the effect of constrictingthe second sub-loop 24 around some portion of the instrument 26.Alternatively, the instrument 26 or tool 26 may be pulled to stretch thelanyard 16 or loop 16, adding elastic forces before tightening the lock20. The sub-loop 24 may then apply more force to support friction forretaining the instrument 26.

The lock 20 may be advanced 124 until the second sub-loop 24appropriately secures or grips the instrument 26. How tightly the secondsub-loop 24 should grip the instrument 26 may depend on how theinstrument 26 is to be utilized 116. For example, in embodiments wherethe instrument 26 will be rotated, less gripping may be required. Thatis, the second sub-loop 24 may sufficiently grip the instrument 26 toprovide the desired tethering, but may not sufficiently grip theinstrument 26 to resist rotation of the instrument 26 within the secondsub-loop 24.

Alternatively, in selected embodiments, it may be desirable for thesecond sub-loop 24 to grip the instrument 26 sufficiently to resist allrelative motion therebetween. In such embodiments, the lock 20 may beadvanced toward the instrument 26 until sufficient tension is generated126 in the second sub-loop 24. In embodiments where the lanyard 16comprises an elastomeric material, this tensioning 126 may includeelastic deformation (e.g. stretching) of the second sub-loop 24.

Once the lock 20 has been advanced 124 to the desired position withrespect to the instrument 26, the lock 20 may be engaged 126. So engaged126, the lock 20 may resist further travel along the lanyard 16.Accordingly, the lock 20 may prevent the second sub-loop 24 fromexpanding and loosening its grip on the instrument 26.

Referring to FIG. 18, the present invention may be used tosimultaneously secure multiple instruments 26. A method 130 of soutilizing the present invention may involve applying 110 a singleband 12supporting multiple lanyards 16. Alternatively, it may involve applying110 various bands 12 (or clips, etc.) at various locations (e.g., oneband 12 on a left wrist and another on a right wrist). For purposes ofdiscussion, this method 130 will be presented as involving twoinstruments 26. However, within the scope of the present invention, theprinciples of this method 130 may be applied to more than twoinstruments 26, such as a set of several tools 26, or tools 26 andparts.

The method 130 may continue with positioning 112 a the first instrument26. Such positioning 112 a may comprise placing the first instrument 26within an appropriate second sub-loop 24. The size of that secondsub-loop 24 may then be reduced to engage 114 a the first instrument 26.A similar positioning 112 b and engaging 114 b process may beimplemented to secure the second instrument 26 within some other secondsub-loop 24, and so on until a last tool 26 or part is engaged. Oncesecured, both the first and second instruments 26 may be utilized 116 a,166 b as desired or necessary.

When the user has finished using 116 a, 116 b either instrument 26 orpart, one or both may be released 118 a, 118 b from the correspondingsecond (or nth sub-loop 24. The user may then position 112 a, 112 bother instruments 26 and repeat the process. Alternatively, if the userhas no more need for tethering, the band 12 or bands 12 may be removed120 and the tether 10 or tethers 10 stowed for future use. The loop maysimply be slipped along an arm out of the way.

The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms withoutdeparting from its basic functions or essential characteristics. Thedescribed embodiments are to be considered in all respects only asillustrative, and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is,therefore, indicated by the appended claims, rather than by theforegoing description. All changes that come within the meaning andrange of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within theirscope.

1. an apparatus comprising: a band sized to fit a human wrist; a firstlanyard formed as a continuous, closed loop; an interface connecting thefirst lanyard to the band; first lock adjustably pinching the firstlanyard to form first and second sub-loops therefrom.
 2. The apparatusof claim 1, wherein the band is discontinuous and comprises a closurefacilitating application and securement of the band to a human wrist. 3.The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the closure is selected from the groupconsisting of a snap, buckle, and hook and look arrangement.
 4. Theapparatus of claim 3, wherein the first lanyard is formed of anelastomeric material.
 5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the firstlanyard comprises an O-ring seal.
 6. The apparatus of claim 5, whereinthe first lock comprises a cord lock.
 7. The apparatus of claim 6,further comprising an instrument.
 8. The apparatus of claim 7, whereinthe first sub-loop engages the instrument.
 9. The apparatus of claim 8,wherein the second sub-loop engages the interface.
 10. The apparatus ofclaim 9, wherein the instrument is selected from the group consisting ofa screw, bolt, nail, nut, rivet, pin, wrench, driver, hammer, and powertool.
 11. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the wherein the band furthercomprises a closure facilitating application and securement of the bandto a human wrist, the closure being selected from the group consistingof a snap, buckle, and hook and look arrangement.
 12. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the first lanyard is formed of an elastomeric material.13. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first lock comprises a cordlock.
 14. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising an instrument andwherein the first sub-loop engages the instrument and the secondsub-loop engages the interface.
 15. The apparatus of claim 1, furthercomprising a second lanyard formed as a continuous, closed loop andwherein the interface connects the second lanyard to the band.
 16. Theapparatus of claim 15, further comprising a second lock adjustablypinching the second lanyard to form first and second sub-loopstherefrom.
 17. An apparatus comprising: a band sized to fit a humanwrist; at least one lanyard formed as a continuous, closed loop; aninterface connecting the at least one lanyard to the band; at least onelock adjustably pinching the at least one lanyard to form at least twosub-loops, wherein adjusting the location where the at least one lockpinches the at least one lanyard continuously increases or decreases thesize of one sub-loop of the at least two sub-loops while simultaneously,continuously, and respectively decreasing or increasing the size ofanother sub-loop of the at least two sub-loops.
 18. The apparatus ofclaim 17, wherein the other sub-loop engages the interface.
 19. Theapparatus of claim 18, wherein adjusting the location where the at leastone lock pinches the at least one lanyard continuously adjusts the sizeof the one sub-loop between a minimum size and a maximum size, theminimum size corresponding to an interior diameter within the onesub-loop of substantially zero.
 20. A method comprising: selecting anapparatus comprising a band sized to fit a human wrist, a lanyard formedas a continuous, closed loop, the lanyard being connected to the band,and a lock adjustably pinching the lanyard to form first and secondsub-loops; applying the band to a human wrist; positioning an instrumentwithin the first sub-loop; and adjusting the location where the lockpinches the lanyard to decrease the size of the first sub-loop until theinstrument is sufficiently secured therewithin.